Blessed Maria De Requesens

Biography

Blessed Maria De Requesens, also known as Blessed Maria of Requesens, was born in the mid-13th century to a noble Catalan family in Spain. Despite her privileged upbringing, Maria felt a deep calling to dedicate her life to serving the poor and marginalized members of society.

Inspired by her faith and compelled by a sense of compassion, Maria selflessly decided to give away her entire fortune to those in need. Seeking to fully commit herself to a life of service, she joined the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy, also known as the Mercedarians, one of the first religious communities established in the Kingdom of Aragon.

Maria's journey as a Mercedarian led her to the convent hospital of Saint Eulalia in Barcelona, Spain. Here, she dedicated her life to caring for the sick and infirm, providing comfort and healing to their suffering bodies and souls. Maria's work in the hospital became exemplary, and she quickly gained recognition for her immense personal piety and unwavering commitment to those in her care.

Beyond her selfless service, Blessed Maria De Requesens became renowned for her abilities as a miracle worker. Countless testimonies attested to her intercessory prayers and miraculous healings, even in seemingly hopeless cases. Through her deep connection to God, Maria was able to bring hope and solace to those in desperate need, inspiring faith and awe among those who witnessed the miracles she performed.

While there is no detailed information regarding her specific representations, it is believed that Maria De Requesens is often depicted in Mercedarian attire, symbolizing her dedication to the order and her integral role within the Mercedarian community.

Blessed Maria De Requesens passed away in 1345 from natural causes. Although her exact age at the time of her death is unknown, her profound impact on the lives of others and her unwavering commitment to serving the needy and infirm would continue to be remembered and venerated for generations to come.

While the beatification process for Blessed Maria De Requesens is not explicitly mentioned, it is widely believed that her virtuous life, strong faith, and reputed miracles have gained her the title of "Blessed," signifying her exceptional holiness and her close proximity to sainthood.

Her feast day is commemorated on October 31st, a day in which the Catholic faithful remember and honor her life and her remarkable contributions to the Mercedarian community, the Church, and society at large.

Blessed Maria De Requesens remains an influential figure, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps of selfless service and compassionate care for those most in need. Her legacy as a model of devotion, charity, and miraculous intercession continues to be celebrated and cherished by the faithful around the world.